The Functions of Social Conflict

Lewis Coser presents an examination of the concept of social conflict and its use in empirical sociological research in this "lucid, comprehensive essay in social theory" (American Journal of Sociology).

The positive values of conflict for all societies come to light in this study that reveals how conflicts fulfill social functions such as the maintenance of group boundaries and the prevention of the withdrawal of members of a group. Lewis Coser is critical of the view that conflict is dysfunctional and works to demonstrate its inadequacies.

In a series of basic propositions distilled primarily from the theories of Georg Simmel, Coser clarifies the function of social conflict. Beyond this, Functions of Social Conflicts extends these propositions and relates them to psychoanalysis and empirical research theories.

Author: Lewis A. Coser
Publisher: Free Press
Published: 11/01/1964
Pages: 192
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.56lbs
Size: 8.50h x 5.56w x 0.47d
ISBN13: 9780029068106
ISBN10: 002906810X
BISAC Categories:
- Social Science | Sociology | General
- Family & Relationships | Conflict Resolution